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Spa Time with the Girls

By Carolyn Keating

Miami Romance Month

February 1 - February 28

With our fabulous sun, sand and surf, it comes as no surprise that Miami is one of the best places to unwind. Brides-to-be know how important it is to be relaxed and looking your best before the Big Day arrives. Setting aside a few hours –or a whole day – for some spa time with the girls can be a great way to relax. Mothers of the bride and groom, maids of honor and best friends can all join in on the fun.

When it comes to spas and spa treatments, Miami has a lot to brag about! Whether they're nestled away in a peaceful resort that resembles an ancient Tuscan villa or perched above the Atlantic Ocean in a modern penthouse suite, Greater Miami's spas come in all shapes and sizes with a price range to fit every budget.

A few are classic destination spas where the atmosphere is that of an Old World retreat and the sole focus is on the restoration of health and wellness. Others are downtown urban spas that cater to corporate executives and business travelers always on the go. There are also many first-rate spas located both in large resort properties and smaller, boutique hotels. And then there are the dozens and dozens of day spas scattered throughout Greater Miami and the Beaches that cater to both locals and tourists on a regular basis.

Here Are A Few Miami Spas Worth Checking Out:

Biltmore Resort & Spa – the stately hotel boasts an iconic swimming pool, private cabanas, an outdoor restaurant surrounded by a fountain and a tranquil, 7th floor spa with the latest treatments. Earth tones set a calming atmosphere while the spa attendants cater to your every need.

Don't miss: The Biltmore's Girlfriend Spa Party welcomes you and your friends in the unique private setting of the Zen Spa Suite. Enjoy manicures, refresher facials, and/or neck and shoulder massages while socializing with friends.

Carillon Miami Wellness Resort – This resort hotel and spa is located on the ocean, about 15 minutes north of South Beach. The spa features a delicious restaurant with full bar, and a full range of spa, fitness and wellness services.

Don't miss: The Aquavana® thermal suites, a lavish array of healing waters, thermal cabins and soaking tubs that you will want to explore at your leisure. Choose from the Crystal Steam Room, Finnish Sauna, Igloo Room, Herbal Laconium or HydroSpa.

Aqualina Spa by ESPA – Luxury surrounds you at this elegant condo-hotel on the ocean in Sunny Isles Beach. Cheerful red umbrellas and lounges highlight the beachfront space, while a calm, Zen-like atmosphere prevails at ESPA, the resort's elegant and cocoon-like spa located on the first floor.

Don't miss: Stress Relieving Abyanga treatment, which begins with a salt and oil body scrub followed by a gentle facial cleanse. After a shower, enjoy a marma-point Ayurvedic massage using a warm infusion of oils and herbs. The ritual concludes with a deeply relaxing head massage or Shirodhara (oil pouring through the third eye from the scalp).

The Standard – Kind of like a playground for adults, this local's favorite has a whimsical and relaxing outdoor space and pool area, and a popular patio restaurant with beautiful views of Biscayne Bay. The indoor spa features a full range of treatments including Thai massage, acupuncture, Hot & Cold Stone therapy and manicures and pedicures. Yoga and meditation classes are very popular here.

Don't miss: Make time to experience the serenity of the Turkish hammam or slap on some healing and delightfully gooey earth at the Mud Lounge.